Medications · FAQ
How does finasteride work for male pattern hair loss?
Short answer
Finasteride blocks an enzyme that changes testosterone into DHT, a hormone that can shrink hair follicles in male pattern hair loss. It may slow hair loss and help some hair grow back. Results vary. A licensed physician in your state decides whether finasteride is appropriate for you.
Finasteride blocks an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. This enzyme changes testosterone into dihydrotestosterone, or DHT. In people with male pattern hair loss, DHT can cause certain hair follicles to shrink. Over time, these follicles make thinner, shorter hairs.
By lowering DHT, finasteride may slow further hair loss and help some hair grow back. Results vary. It does not cure hair loss or create new hair follicles. It also does not treat every cause of thinning hair. Sudden shedding, round bald patches, or an inflamed scalp may need a different type of evaluation.
Finasteride is available as a prescription pill. It may also be prescribed in a compounded topical form. Compounded medications are prepared by a licensed pharmacy for one patient and are not FDA-approved.
Before prescribing, a licensed physician in your state reviews your hair loss pattern, health history, and medicines. Share when the hair loss started and whether you have scalp pain, itching, or other symptoms.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.